How does TastyPals choose the best waterfront restaurants in New York?

We evaluate waterfront restaurants in New York on food quality, room tone, price, and whether the experience holds up for real dining plans — not just the places with the most Google reviews. This list is anchored by Soothr LIC alongside Lost in Paradise Rooftop and Westville Dumbo, chosen through editorial review and cross-referenced against neighbourhood context and guest ratings. Read our full methodology at tastypals.com/methodology.

GuideUpdated July 15, 2026

12 Best waterfront Restaurants in New York

Q: What are the best waterfront restaurants in New York?

Soothr LIC is our top pick in New York. Soothr's Long Island City outpost carries the East Village original's reputation for regionally rooted Thai cooking into Queens, and by most accounts it has settled quickly into the role of neighborhood anchor rather than hype destination. The room is described as dramatic and dimly lit — the kind of atmospheric space that gives Thai cooking a sense of occasion it doesn't always receive in New York — and the kitchen is known for not dialing back the bold, layered flavors that define Thai regional traditions. That combination of serious cooking and a considered dining room has made Soothr a recurring reference point for Thai in the borough. The menu centers on dishes that reward attention. The khao soi is consistently the one diners and writers point to first — a northern Thai curry-broth noodle dish that, when done right, balances richness with aromatic complexity and contrasting textures; Soothr's version is widely reported to honor the classic rather than soften it for a broader audience. The grilled meats are noted for confident seasoning and char, the papaya salad is said to be adjustable to your actual heat tolerance (a detail worth flagging when you order), and the crispy-rice salad has developed a following among regulars who order broadly and share across the table. Practically speaking, Soothr fits multiple occasions: a date-night room where the setting does real work, and a mid-range table where a group can eat ambitiously without significant damage to the bill. Weekend evenings draw a crowd, so a reservation is the sensible move. Come with a group if you can, order the khao soi and at least one grilled plate, and be direct about your heat preference — the kitchen, by all reports, will meet you there. Other strong options include Lost in Paradise Rooftop and Westville Dumbo.

The best 12 restaurants for waterfront in New York — curated by TastyPals editors.

The best waterfront restaurants in New York are Soothr LIC, Lost in Paradise Rooftop, Westville Dumbo, and more. Start with Soothr LIC if you want the strongest overall first pick.

By Priya Sharma•12 ranked picks•Published July 15, 2026•Updated July 15, 2026

Methodology•Editorial team

Soothr LIC Lost in Paradise Rooftop Westville Dumbo

12 Best waterfront Restaurants in New York

Google

Top picks at a glance

#1Soothr LICThai • Long Island City • moderate #2Lost in Paradise RooftopContemporary • Long Island City • moderate #3Westville DumboAmerican • DUMBO • moderate

Who this guide is for

This guide covers the highest-rated restaurants for waterfront in New York, sorted by Google rating and editorial judgment. Picks span Long Island City and DUMBO.